Breast revision surgery aims to replace previous implants with new ones, enhance the breasts’ appearance, and upgrade the implant material. This could involve accompanying procedures, such as a breast lift or reduction, adjusting the shape of the implant pocket to relocate the implant on the chest, and altering the size or shape of the implant.
Possible Reasons for Seeking Breast Implant Revision Surgery
Reasons for seeking revision surgery for breast implants may include the following:
- Desire to alter the size of your breasts
- Concerns about implant rupture or migration
- Switching from saline to silicone implants or opting for a different implant style
- Experiencing discomfort due to capsular contracture.
You may also choose breast revision surgery if the previous procedure did not achieve your desired outcomes or if your implants have reached their expected lifespan. In either scenario, you can rely on breast implant replacement surgery in Philadelphia.
Breast implant revision surgery is a unique and customized process that must be tailored to meet an individual’s specific needs and goals. It is essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in various types of breast surgery to ensure that the procedure aligns with the patient’s desired outcomes.
The surgeon should take the time to understand the patient’s goals and develop a surgical plan that addresses all relevant concerns during the operation.
How Should You Prepare for Breast Implant Revision?
When getting ready for a breast revision procedure for breast implants, your healthcare provider may request you to:
- Undergo laboratory examinations or seek a medical assessment.
- Refrain from consuming aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and herbal remedies, as they may increase the bleeding risk.
- Get a mammography, ultrasound, or MRI for breast or implant imaging.
- Quit smoking.
- Take certain prescriptions or adjust the dosage of your present ones.
A breast implant revision is normally performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or an accredited outpatient surgical center. If you choose to have your breast implant revision as an outpatient procedure, make sure to have someone accompany you to and from the clinic and stay with you for at least the first night after surgery.
What to Expect During Breast Implant Revision Recovery
After your breast implant revision procedure, your incisions will most likely be covered with gauze dressings or bandages. You might have to wear a support bra or some other kind of garment after your surgery, but this will depend on the nature of your procedure.
If necessary, your surgeon may insert a tiny tube just under the surface of your skin to remove any accumulated blood or fluid that is in excess.
Upon undergoing surgery, you will receive detailed instructions on properly caring for your surgical area(s). This will include information on medications for healing and infection prevention, as well as specific signs for the surgical site and overall health. You will also be advised when to schedule a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many breast revisions can you have?
Theoretically, an individual can undergo unlimited breast implant revisions to achieve the desired appearance.
However, it is recommended to allow sufficient time for healing to occur, with a minimum wait of six months, to allow any swelling to subside and to adjust to the changes in the look and feel of the breasts before considering additional surgery. It’s important to note that there will be a period of adjustment to the new appearance and that recovery is a crucial component of this process.
What is the cost of having breast implant revision surgery?
The cost of breast implant revision surgery varies depending on multiple factors such as the surgical procedure, the choice of implants, the extent of scarring, the type of anesthesia, etc.
A consultation with a surgeon is the most effective way to determine the cost. The surgeon will examine you and discuss your goals to give a detailed and accurate cost estimate.
How long does it take to recover from a breast implant revision procedure?
After undergoing breast implant revision surgery, most patients can typically return to work within 1 to 2 weeks. They should refrain from participating in any strenuous activities for 3 weeks or more. The appearance of bruises should start to fade after 2 weeks, and the swelling should gradually decrease over 6 weeks.
Is a breast revision procedure necessary for me?
The choice of whether or not to have a breast revision is a highly individualized one, taking into account numerous considerations. A breast surgery specialist can assist you in determining what outcomes can be accomplished and if they align with your goals.
If you’re considering undergoing a breast revision, your surgeon will thoroughly review the procedure and the various choices available, allowing you to make a knowledgeable decision.
Will insurance cover my breast implant revision surgery?
Health insurance companies consider breast enhancement procedures, including the initial surgery and any follow-up revisions, to be elective procedures. Therefore, they are not covered.
